The Sculptural Lidded Jar with Chanakarn “Punch” Semachai

Workshop Description

In this engaging 2-day hands-on workshop, Punch will guide you through the delightful process of crafting her signature sculptural lidded jar. Blending pottery and sculpture infused functional pieces with a sense of playfulness and joy. Demonstrations include: hand building vessels and sculptural parts, underglaze methods like water coloring, sgraffito, wash, and underglaze pencil. Drawing from her personal journey with clay, Punch will share valuable tips and tricks to help you navigate the creative process effectively. This is a hands-on workshop, so get ready to get your hands dirty and let your imagination run wild.

Artist Biography and Statement

Bangkok-born Chanakarn Semachai, known as Punch, is a ceramic artist and educator. She earned her BA from Chulalongkorn University, Thailand and her Master of Fine Arts from Edinboro University, USA. Her work explores identity and multiculturalism, blending sculptural and functional elements with vibrant colors and ornamentation to convey personal narratives with humor. A 2022 NCECA Emerging Artist awardee, she also earned recognition from The Ceramics Monthly. Additionally, in 2024, she attended the Gulgong Ceramic Festival in Australia as one of the featured masters. Currently, she teaches creative ceramics full-time at Chulalongkorn University.

Host or Publisher Mary Catherine Bassett